Viberti Giovanni – Barbera d’Alba La Gemella

Winery: Viberti Giovanni
Category: Red Wine
Type: Italian Barbera
Region: Piedmont
Grapes: 100% Barbera
Vinification: After stalk removal and pressing, contact with the skins takes place in a roto-fermenter for 8-10 days. Malolactic fermentation then takes place in French oak vats at 20° C. The wine is transferred back into stainless steel tanks for 3-4 months.
Color: Ruby-red with evident purple notes.
Bouquet: Expressive floral tones of wild rose, fresh berries and crushed mineral.
Palate: Full-bodied. Round and lightly chewy tannins, with a creamy texture and a flavorful finish.
Pairing: Game, Cheeses, and cured Meats
Serving Temp: 16-18° C [60-64° F]

About the Piedmont Region:

Location: Northern Italy, West
Notable Reds: Barbera, Barolo, Dolcetto, and Nebbiolo
Notable Whites: Arneis, Cortese, Moscato, and Spumante

Native vines are abundant and were subsequently cultivated by the ancient Romans. Ancient Greeks called this area Oenotrua (meaning “land of vines”). With its close proximity, France has been a significant influence on the region, particularly Burgundy, which is evident in the varietal styles of most Piedmontese wines.

The region is located in the foothills of the Alps, bordering both France and Switzerland. Between its mountainous terrain and the Po Valley, only 30% of the land is suitable for vineyard plantings. The valley and the mountains also contribute to the area’s noted fog cover, which aids in the ripening of grapes. The region has a colder, continental winter climate, and significantly low rainfall due to the ‘rain shadow’ effect of the Alps.